My Go-To Morning "Detox" Routine

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Perhaps you've heard about detoxing in the media, but have you ever tried it for yourself? There's a pretty big divide: people either consider detoxing to be a useless fad, or they can't recommend it enough. There are those who think it's dangerous; others consider it an essential part of their routine.

I'm in the "it-can't-hurt-to-try" camp. For one, I might as well do whatever I can to be healthier and feel good. If a simple detox routine does that with no adverse effects, why not? For another, I feel good after I follow my routine. I use a lot of creative visualization during the process, too, so I think that really enhances my experience. I think about all the "toxins" leaving my body, my cells getting stronger, my skin softer, any excess weight melting off of me. 

And I can feel sweat pouring off my face. It's doing something, that's for sure. 

Read on for my simple, easy-to-follow routine. If you decide to try something like this, please first do your research and consult with your primary physician. 

My Go-To Morning "Detox" Routine

First, I make it a point to drink a huge glass of water. I'll usually drink it plain, but sometimes I'll add either freshly squeezed lemon or ACV if I'm feeling fancy. 

Next, I dry brush from the soles of my feet all the way up to my neck. This is alleged to be another way to eliminate toxins, as well as good for circulation, cellulite, and exfoliation. And, honestly, it just feels really good! 

With dry brushing, you want to work your way up from the bottom using either a bristly loofah or a dry-brushing brush. Quick, firm strokes toward the heart ought to do it. Miranda Kerr is big fan of dry brushing and says she does it every morning, so it's definitely worth a shot. She's stunning!

After I finish brushing, I prepare a warm bath with two ingredients: bentonite clay and gin
ger root oil. (I use Indian Healing Clay by Aztec Secret)

Now, bentonite clay is supposed to soften your skin and pull impurities from it. I don't know if it does or not, I just like adding it to cover all my bases. When it comes to the ginger oil, I use that because it's an on-hand ingredient that doesn't require me to run out to the store for fresh ginger (which is what a lot of people use; they grate a fresh ginger root and add that to their water). 

I don't feel that the ginger oil is any less effective, nor does it aggravate my skin. However, you should always use extreme caution with oils and essential oils, as they can be harmful to those with certain sensitivities. 

Ginger is said to be anti-inflammatory and good for aches and pains. I prefer to use it because I love the scent and it really makes me sweat (one of the markers for a good detox bath!). It's an overall "heating" ingredient. In Ayurvedic medicine, it stimulates circulation and "lights the fires" within the body. 

I use a deep soaking tub for my detox routine, so I use anywhere from a 1/2 cup to a whole cup of bentonite clay. I swirl it around to make sure it's mixed in. While the water runs, I pour 10-20 drops of ginger oil into the water. Next, I sit back and relax. This is a good time to get lost in a book or magazine since you want to stay in the bath at least 20 minutes. Within 10 minutes, I generally have a warm sheen of sweat coating my face, which I love.

I shoot for 30 minutes, then towel off and dress. I immediately have a glass of water. 

It's that simple. I feel really good after my detox baths... Just really mellow and loose and relaxed. My limbs feel good. If I had any aches or pains, they're gone. 

It's just a great morning detox routine for days when you don't have to be anywhere early. As a bonus, the bentonite clay can be mixed with water or apple cider vinegar to make an effective gunk-pulling face mask. 

Happy bathing, everyone.